1.3 Refractive Index Flashcards
1
Q
What is refraction?
A
The change in direction of a wave as it crosses from one material to another
2
Q
Why does refraction take place?
A
Because waves change speed when they cross a boundary. The change in speed of the waves causes a change in direction unless the waves are travelling along a normal
3
Q
When will a light ray refract?
A
When it crosses from the air into glass it is refracted towards the normal
4
Q
What is the refractive index a measure of?
A
How much a substance can refract a light ray
5
Q
Which way does a light ray change direction when it crosses from glass to air?
A
It refracts away from the normal
